A NEW MODELING TECHNIQUE FOR PIEZOELECTRICALLY ACTUATED BEAMS

A systematic modeling technique is proposed for the analysis of beams containing piezoelectric sensors and actuators. This technique is to use the coupling effects between longitudinal motion and bending motion to accurately and effectively predict the actuation mechanisms of integrated active beams. A finite element formulation is developed using the modeling technique, which can easily be used in developing a two- and three-dimensional finite element models such as piezoelectrically actuated plates and shells or other structural forms.